The primary aim of the study is to see if a single wrist injection (intra-articular) of dexamethasone at the time of treatment will reduce the incidence of early-onset of post traumatic osteoarthritis.

Our hypothesis is that the intra-articular administration of dexamethasone soon after joint injury will prevent the subsequent development of PTOA, and restore normal joint homeostasis. We plan to generate the data needed to test this hypothesis in a Phase 0 (pilot) clinical trial using patients who have suffered distal radius fractures.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Unstable distal radius fracture
2. Fracture type AO B1, B2, B3, C1, C2 or C3.
3. 18-65 years old
4. Understand and read English
5. Community dwelling (not in assisted living or NH)

Exclusion criteria:

1. Open or bilateral DRF
2. Associated upper extremity carpal fracture or carpal ligament injuries requiring casting or surgical repair at the time of DRF fixation.
3. Greater than 2 weeks post injury
4. Neurologic disorders affecting the hand, wrist or arm.
5. History of permanent dementia, Alzheimer's or other neurologic dx
6. Substance abuse
7. Pathologic fractures
8. Known pregnancy
9. Radiocarpal joint arthritis